Saturday, October 12, 2024 marked a pivotal moment in Himaya’s career, the three-year-old roan filly trained by Jason DaCosta.

After 23 starts without a win, Himaya finally found her way to the winners’ circle, capturing the coveted Betting, Gaming, and Lotteries Commission (BGLC)/Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (TOBA) Millionaire Series (Race 2) at Caymanas Park.

Himaya’s journey had been marked by much promise, with eight top-three finishes (four seconds and four thirds), but no victories. DaCosta, however, remained patient and confident in his filly’s abilities.

DaCosta’s patience paid off when Tevin Foster guided Himaya to a dominating three-length victory in a maiden special weight event for native-bred three-year-olds going seven furlongs (1,400m), securing the $1.05-million purse and a lucrative $2-million BGLC/TOBA bonus.

To qualify for that hefty bonus, horses entered had to pass through the TOBA yearly sale or be supplemented for a fee of $150,000. Himaya was supplemented by DaCosta.

DaCosta beamed with pride, praising Himaya’s improvement.

“She [Himaya] is a small-framed filly and so she took a while to come around. She’s improving right now,” DaCosta said.

“She ran probably her best race last week, so I took a shot at the $2-million bonus. She’s on top of her game right now, I was confident she would run well as Tevin [Foster] had her in the perfect position,” DaCosta added.

Foster positioned Himaya behind the pacesetters, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. As they entered the straight, Himaya surged forward, overtaking Blood Moon (Dane Dawkins) and crossing the finish line with authority. Happy Force edged Blood Moon for second place.

DaCosta praised the BGLC/TOBA bonus initiative, citing its positive impact on the racing industry. “It gives owners incentive to purchase young horses, which is good for the sport’s development.”